The BANDAI HOBBY CENTER PLAMO DESIGN INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTE (BHCPDII) is a new Bandai Hobby Center factory located in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture. This factory was designed as a production base for the reliable supply of model kits as well as a sustainable factory that inspires visitors through its Monozukuri (craftsmanship)practices.
A major characteristic of this factory is the solar power generation system installed on its roof. This system comprises 1,080 solar panels and began generating power in August 2025. Even before the BHCPDII commenced full-scale production, it was already sourcing a portion of its power from this system, which has been confirmed to have contributed to reductions in CO2 emissions of 179 tons over the eight-month period from August 2025 to March 2026. Shizuoka City has favorable sunlight conditions, and the solar power generation system installed at the existing Bandai Hobby Center has also generated more electricity than expected.
However, this solar power generation system is not the only environmental feature at the BHCPDII. Energy-efficient design was employed throughout the facility to reduce energy consumption from production floor air-conditioning and lighting as well as other equipment. In addition to high-efficiency air-conditioning, LED lighting, and high-insulation materials, the factory utilizes a monitoring system for tracking electricity use that is contributing to everyday improvement activities.
Another major characteristic is its all-in-one production system, in which all processes from molding to bagging, packaging, and shipping are carried out within a single factory. This approach eliminates the need for transportation of items between bases. Moreover, the factory employs automated guided vehicles (AGVs), automatic conveyance systems, and ceiling-mounted conveyance trollies to reduce labor requirements and improve efficiency. In addition, rainwater is used for certain equipment. The factory is also being operated in a manner that emphasizes connections with the community and with fans. For example, events are held to foster communication with local residents and the factory's museum showcases and communicates our Monozukuri expertise.
The BHCPDII commenced full-scale production in August 2026. Going forward, we will closely monitor electricity consumption and power generation data throughout the year in order to further optimize air-conditioning management and equipment operations. The BHCPDII will also act as a model factory showcasing the insight gained through years of operating the Bandai Hobby Center. It is our hope that the BHCPDII will become more than an eco-friendly and reliable source of high-quality model kits; we want it to be a place that children and fans admire, somewhere they dream of working someday.